Normative Values and Factors Affecting the Pediatric Functional Reach Test in Japanese Children Aged 3-6 Years: A...

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Human Motor Development

Background:

• The Functional Reach Test (FRT) is a clinical tool to assess balance.
• Normative data for FRT in young children, particularly in diverse populations, is limited.
• Establishing age-specific norms is crucial for accurate pediatric balance assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish normative values for the Functional Reach Test (FRT) in Japanese children aged 3-6 years.
• To examine age-related differences in FRT performance.
• To develop a predictive equation for FRT scores using age and height to enhance clinical utility.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 163 typically developing Japanese children aged 3-6 years.
• Two FRT trials were administered, with the average score used for analysis.
• One-way ANOVA and multiple regression analysis were employed to determine age-related differences and predictive factors.

Main Results:

• FRT scores significantly increased with age, ranging from 9.4 cm at 3 years to 15.7 cm at 6 years.
• Six-year-old children demonstrated significantly higher FRT scores compared to all younger age groups (p < .001).
• Age and height were identified as significant predictors of FRT performance, leading to the development of a predictive equation.

Conclusions:

• This study provides valuable normative FRT data for Japanese children aged 3-6 years.
• Age and height are key determinants of FRT performance in this age group.
• The developed predictive equation improves the clinical applicability of the FRT as a pediatric balance screening tool.